Three bowlers who can finish as the highest wicket-taker in the Australia-Pakistan Test series

Post a satisfactory Ashes campaign in England where Australia managed to retain the urn; the Australian cricket team will face Pakistan in their first assignment in whites in their home summer. The tourists, after their lacklustre display in the shortest format, would be seeking inspiration to turn things around in the two-Test series starting from 21st of November.

If the practice matches revealed anything, it was Pakistan’s quick bowlers announcing their arrival down under. Over the years, Australia and Pakistan have displayed their supremacy in producing an elite quality of fast bowlers. The upcoming series isn’t expected to be any different. The visitors have some exciting and unknown young pacers who can trouble the hosts on their decks.

On the other hand, Australia, spearheaded by the number one Test bowler, will look to exploit the home advantage wholly. With both sides having a vulnerable batting line-up, this might turn out as a series dominated by the bowlers. The opening Test in Brisbane also marks Pakistan’s first Test in the ICC World Test Championship.

We take a look at three bowlers who can finish the Australia-Pakistan series as the leading wicket-taker:-

Josh Hazlewood

Josh Hazlewood has cemented his spot as the mainstay of the Australian bowling attack since his debut in 2014. Although he missed out getting selected in Australia’s limited-overs side of late, the move paid off well. The 28-year old finished the Ashes series in England among the highest wicket-takers, taking 20 wickets in four matches at an average of 20.27.

Often compared to the prodigy Glenn McGrath, Hazlewood relies on accurate line and length to trouble the batsmen. In the recent past, like his pace colleagues, he has cranked up the pace. However, the nagging line and length remain his foremost weapon.

Hazlewood also has the edge over Babar Azam, dismissing him four times the previous time these two sides met in Australia. Like the last time, the New South Wales born has the potential to emerge as the highest wicket-taker of the series.